This week, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council have appointed a contractor for its new £21.3 million Theatre and Conference Centre in Newry City Centre which is integral to the City Centre Regeneration Programme.
The project, to be delivered by Woodvale Construction Company, will see the renovation of the historic Grade 2-listed Newry Town Hall and building of a multi-functional venue on the site of the neighbouring Sean Hollywood Arts Centre. Linked by a glazed atrium, the two buildings will operate as a single location.
Complementing the historic 460-seater Newry Town Hall theatre, the new auditorium will have 255 seats capable of being used in range of configurations, supported by the latest in audio visual and performance systems. In its expanded conference layout, this versatile space can also accommodate up to 315 seats. An attractive public realm performance space to the rear of the facility will additionally help regenerate the entire Sugar Island area.
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA said:
“I welcome the appointment of a contractor for the new Theatre and Conference Centre and congratulate all involved in getting to this stage. My department is committed to the development of our cities, towns and villages and welcomes the significant opportunities now open to Newry following this major investment into its cultural infrastructure.”
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell said:
“I am delighted we have reached the stage of contractor appointment. I look forward to the new Theatre and Conference Centre in Newry delivering a vibrant programme of events for both residents and visitors. Our district is renowned for producing exceptional acting talent that has gone on to succeed on the world stage. Newry’s proud theatrical legacy will continue, as a new generation of young performers, supported by their mentors, develop their passion for theatre in state-of-the-art facilities.”
esc construction consultants is proud to be delivering project management and quantity surveying services for this landmark development, which is designed to regenerate Newry’s historic core.
Building works are scheduled to begin in the Summer, with the new facility expected to be completed and open to the public in Spring 2028.
Image credit: Hamilton Architects